Ryan relishing Reading return

18 July 2014

Edwards aims to impress

Royals midfielder Ryan Edwards says he's enjoying life back in Berkshire after a loan spell at Perth Glory last season.

The Aussie scored the game's only goal of our first pre-season friendly on Tuesday night at Exeter as Nigel Adkins fielded a different XI for each half, with the manager expected to do the same for this Saturday's trip to Yeovil.

"It was great to score in my first game back from my loan spell in Australia, and it was good to win our first pre-season game," Edwards said.

"It's good that we're splitting two teams for each half. It's another hard week of training and we're all looking forward to it and hopefully I can put in a good performance at Yeovil."

With several young players knocking on the door for a first team place, Ryan believes it could be a big season for some of Reading's emerging talents.

"It could be a big stepping stone - obviously we need to perform well," the 20-year-old added.

"Reading's known for having a good Academy and bringing young players through. They've definitely looked after me and it's great to have another Aussie (Adam Federici) with me!

"I definitely feel part of it, being in and around the first team. It's great that the gaffer is keen to give young players a chance - who knows what could happen this season?"